THE PENLAND BOOK OF WOODWORKING: MASTER CLASSES IN WOODWORKING TECHNIQUES, is written by 10 furniture makers who have taught at this national center for craft education, located in Penland, N.C. Featured are their personal essays that describe each artist's history, inspirations, influences and methods, accompanied by photographs of their work. Curtis Buchanan assembles a Windsor chair; Doug Sigler uses quick and accurate mold-making to produce bent lamination; Paul Sasso creates evocative, multilayered paint surfaces; John Clark crafts complex inlaid panels with veneer; and Craig Nutt develops designs using models and digital technology. The 224-page hardcover sells for $34.95. Contact: Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., 387 Park Ave. South, New York, NY 10016-8810. Tel: 800-367-9692. www.sterlingpub.com

WORLD WOODS IN COLOR, by William A. Lincoln, is a detailed reference book used by many woodworkers in identifying lumber. Reprinted numerous times, the book contains information on over 275 commercial woods from worldwide sources. Descriptions of technical properties of each are featured, along with color photos to illustrate wood grain of each species. The woods are indexed for botanical, trade, commercial, local and family names, and there is a full bibliography of publications concerning timber study and identification. Lincoln worked in the veneer business for over 30 years. The 320-page hardcover sells for $59.95. Contact: Linden Publishing, Inc., 2006 S. Mary, Fresno, CA 93721. Tel: 800-345-4447. www.woodworkerslibrary.com

WOODWORKING 101 FOR WOMEN, by Marilyn MacEwen, is ideal for women who want to explore a craft traditionally dominated by men but need an extra boost from another female. It's designed to help women gain confidence and become comfortable speaking the language of woodworking, buy the tools they need and build furniture from start to finish. MacEwen is shown throughout the pages working on various projects. In detail she discusses wood types and their characteristics, shows how to set up an efficient workshop, and presents 16 projects, including a bed, chair, CD cabinet and dining room table. MacEwen is a self-taught woodworker of 25 years. Contact: Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., 387 Park Ave. South, New York, NY 10016-8810. Tel: 800-367-9692. www.sterlingpub.com